What Are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are not just about food or weight—they are complex mental health conditions that can stem from a variety of personal, social, and cultural factors. They often reflect deeper emotional struggles, such as trauma, self-doubt, or unmet needs.

At P.A.T.H. Therapy, we recognize that everyone’s story is different. There is no "right" way to experience an eating disorder, and there is no judgment here—only support and understanding.

Types of Eating Disorders

• Anorexia Nervosa: Often involves restricting food intake due to concerns about body image or control.
• Bulimia Nervosa: Characterized by cycles of eating and compensatory behaviors like purging or excessive exercise.
• Binge Eating Disorder: Involves consuming large quantities of food in a way that feels overwhelming or distressing.
• Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): Focuses on avoidance of certain foods due to sensory sensitivities, fears, or other challenges unrelated to body image.

We understand that these labels might not feel like they fit perfectly or might feel uncomfortable. That’s okay—our focus is on understanding your experience and supporting your recovery, not fitting you into a diagnosis.

Recognizing the Signs Without Judgment

It’s important to remember that eating disorders look different for everyone. You might notice some of the following experiences, or none at all, and still feel like something isn’t right. That’s valid.

Physical Experiences

• Changes in weight, energy levels, or appetite.
• Discomfort with certain foods or eating situations.
• Physical symptoms like stomachaches, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating.

Emotional and Behavioral Experiences

• Feeling preoccupied with thoughts about food, body, or eating.
• Avoiding meals or eating alone.
• Experiencing guilt, shame, or stress related to food or body image.
• Feeling overwhelmed or disconnected during or after eating.

If any of these resonate with you—or if your experience feels entirely different—you deserve care and support that meets you where you are.

What Contributes to Eating Disorders?

There is no single cause of an eating disorder.  Instead, they often emerge from a mix of personal, biological, and environmental factors. At P.A.T.H. Therapy, we focus on understanding and addressing these contributing factors with empathy and respect.

Biological Factors

• Genetics or  family history may play a role.
• Brain chemistry can influence how we process emotions or respond to stress.

Emotional Factors

• Past or ongoing trauma.
• Anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges.
• Struggles with self-esteem or self-worth.

Environmental Factors

• Cultural messages about food, weight, and beauty.
• Stressful life transitions or relational dynamics.
• Dieting culture or societal pressures.

No matter the factors involved, you are not at fault. Your eating disorder does not define your worth, and recovery is possible.

A Trauma-Informed Approach to Recovery

Healing from an eating disorder often involves more than addressing eating habits. At P.A.T.H. Therapy, we provide a safe,  nonjudgmental space for you to explore the emotional and psychological aspects of your experience.

Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Eating Disorders

Psilocybin therapy is a promising tool for individuals seeking deeper emotional healing. Research has shown that psilocybin can foster self-compassion, reduce intrusive thoughts, and help individuals process trauma or distress in a supportive environment.

Benefits of Psilocybin Therapy

• Healing Emotional Wounds: Allows you to process experiences or beliefs contributing to disordered eating.
• Enhancing Self-Compassion: Many participants report a greater sense of kindness toward themselves and their bodies.
• Interrupting Harmful Patterns: Psilocybin can promote new perspectives and behaviors, helping you build healthier coping strategies.

Your Journey Toward Healing

Recovery looks different for everyone. Some days will feel easier than others, and that’s okay. At P.A.T.H. Therapy, we celebrate every step forward, no matter how small it may feel.

Our Approach

• Collaborative Care: You are the expert on your experience, and we’re here to support your goals—not impose ours.
• Holistic Healing: We address physical, emotional, and relational aspects of your eating disorder.
• Gentle Guidance: Our therapists create a safe space for exploration, reflection, and growth.

Reach Out for Support

You deserve a life free from the weight of an eating disorder. At P.A.T.H. Therapy, we’re here to help you heal at your own pace and on your own terms.

Contact Us Today

Let us walk this path with you. Schedule a free consultation to explore how psilocybin-assisted therapy and compassionate counselling can support your recovery.

Your journey toward self-acceptance and healing begins here.